Substance Use Therapists in River North, Chicago, IL

Photo of Olivia Spence, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CADC
Olivia Spence
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CADC
River North, Chicago, IL 60654
I have worked with children, adolescents, and adults on anxiety, depression, PTSD, substance use, grief, self-awareness, self-management, and relationship skills.
My treatment specialties are dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), motivational interviewing, and harm reduction. I work to create a supportive and non-judgmental space where individuals feel comfortable, valued, and understood.
I have worked with children, adolescents, and adults on anxiety, depression, PTSD, substance use, grief, self-awareness, self-management, and relationship skills.
My treatment specialties are dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), motivational interviewing, and harm reduction. I work to create a supportive and non-judgmental space where individuals feel comfortable, valued, and understood.
(630) 642-6834 View (630) 642-6834
Photo of David Saxon, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
David Saxon
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
River North, Chicago, IL 60654
Life can feel heavy and overwhelming when we are living with depression, anxiety, trauma, or triggers. Therapy offers a space to slow down, reconnect, and move through these experiences with greater presence and self-compassion. I know therapy is going well when tension and self-doubt give way to a sense of ease and confidence. I work with individuals who have a history of trauma, are in recovery, or are exploring identity, relationships, self-esteem, family dynamics, or life transitions. I invite curiosity and kindness toward all parts of the self, especially those who have learned to protect or adapt through adversity.
Life can feel heavy and overwhelming when we are living with depression, anxiety, trauma, or triggers. Therapy offers a space to slow down, reconnect, and move through these experiences with greater presence and self-compassion. I know therapy is going well when tension and self-doubt give way to a sense of ease and confidence. I work with individuals who have a history of trauma, are in recovery, or are exploring identity, relationships, self-esteem, family dynamics, or life transitions. I invite curiosity and kindness toward all parts of the self, especially those who have learned to protect or adapt through adversity.
(312) 779-6273 View (312) 779-6273
Photo of Neeva Sandhu, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Neeva Sandhu
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Hello! Welcome! I'm passionate about working with BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, and People of Color) clients coping with life transitions, trauma (individual, historical, intergenerational), cultural identity, mood disorders, and addiction. I work from a liberation-focused, anti-racist perspective. This means that my approach is deeply rooted in understanding the intersections of identity, privilege, and power dynamics. Clients working with me are addressing what's happening day to day while zooming out to get the big picture of how family, culture, and social systems inform your lived experiences.
Hello! Welcome! I'm passionate about working with BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, and People of Color) clients coping with life transitions, trauma (individual, historical, intergenerational), cultural identity, mood disorders, and addiction. I work from a liberation-focused, anti-racist perspective. This means that my approach is deeply rooted in understanding the intersections of identity, privilege, and power dynamics. Clients working with me are addressing what's happening day to day while zooming out to get the big picture of how family, culture, and social systems inform your lived experiences.
(815) 240-8715 View (815) 240-8715
Photo of Peter Dalgleish, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Peter Dalgleish
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Serves Area
I am committed to helping clients manage anxiety, depression, career transitions, relationship issues, and other stressors life presents you with. Through collaboration and honest conversation, I will work with you to uncover your inherent strengths so that you can continue to evolve into the person you are most aligned with. I strive to be a strategic partner for you so that I can help you achieve your goals.
I am committed to helping clients manage anxiety, depression, career transitions, relationship issues, and other stressors life presents you with. Through collaboration and honest conversation, I will work with you to uncover your inherent strengths so that you can continue to evolve into the person you are most aligned with. I strive to be a strategic partner for you so that I can help you achieve your goals.
(630) 228-1039 View (630) 228-1039
Photo of Alexandra Kutnick, Psychologist, MA, PhD
Alexandra Kutnick
Psychologist, MA, PhD
1 Endorsed
River North, Chicago, IL 60611
Waitlist for new clients
I work with people to address a range of issues, including depression, anxiety, traumatic stress, substance use, shame, loss and grief, relationship difficulties, sexual and gender identity issues, job and academic stress, adjustment challenges to situations such as divorce, new parenthood, stepparenting, adoption and challenges coping with serious health conditions such as infertility, autoimmune disease and cancer.
I create a safe environment where patients can explore how current and past experiences, such as relationships and family dynamics, may be impacting their well-being, and where patients can develop trust and insights that helps to harness their strengths, and reduce distress so they may lead more satisfying lives.
I work with people to address a range of issues, including depression, anxiety, traumatic stress, substance use, shame, loss and grief, relationship difficulties, sexual and gender identity issues, job and academic stress, adjustment challenges to situations such as divorce, new parenthood, stepparenting, adoption and challenges coping with serious health conditions such as infertility, autoimmune disease and cancer.
I create a safe environment where patients can explore how current and past experiences, such as relationships and family dynamics, may be impacting their well-being, and where patients can develop trust and insights that helps to harness their strengths, and reduce distress so they may lead more satisfying lives.
(872) 228-2144 View (872) 228-2144
Photo of Yaya Afriyie, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LPC-A, LCDC-I, IL/TX
Yaya Afriyie
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LPC-A, LCDC-I, IL/TX
1 Endorsed
Online Only
My name is Yaa Afriyie (Yah Af-ree-yay), lovingly referred to as “Yaya”. I’m professionally licensed in Illinois & Texas, seeing clients virtually. I specialize in nighttime anxiety and offer late evening sessions (8, 9, 10, 11 p.m. CST). I also provide mental health counseling for depression, generalized anxiety, domestic violence, trauma, post-partum depression, PTSD, & anger management, substance abuse & more. I'm open to groups & individuals ages 16+. I see people of all races, religions, backgrounds, sexual orientations, & neurodiversity. Currently, I take self-pay only, but insurance acceptance coming!
My name is Yaa Afriyie (Yah Af-ree-yay), lovingly referred to as “Yaya”. I’m professionally licensed in Illinois & Texas, seeing clients virtually. I specialize in nighttime anxiety and offer late evening sessions (8, 9, 10, 11 p.m. CST). I also provide mental health counseling for depression, generalized anxiety, domestic violence, trauma, post-partum depression, PTSD, & anger management, substance abuse & more. I'm open to groups & individuals ages 16+. I see people of all races, religions, backgrounds, sexual orientations, & neurodiversity. Currently, I take self-pay only, but insurance acceptance coming!
(630) 446-2098 View (630) 446-2098
Photo of Taylor Johnson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Taylor Johnson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Online Only
Hi there! If you're scrolling through Psychology Today, I imagine you might be experiencing a life change or contemplating making one. This is a wonderful first step. If I can, I would be happy to support you in this time of challenges or choices. It's helpful for therapy seekers and therapy providers to be in alignment on goals and approaches. So, if any of the following descriptions sound like you, we may be a great fit: 1. A young adult navigating life transitions who'd like a space to get curious & find clarity 2. A high achiever who could benefit from evaluating their lifestyle balance, sense of self & pressure to perform
Hi there! If you're scrolling through Psychology Today, I imagine you might be experiencing a life change or contemplating making one. This is a wonderful first step. If I can, I would be happy to support you in this time of challenges or choices. It's helpful for therapy seekers and therapy providers to be in alignment on goals and approaches. So, if any of the following descriptions sound like you, we may be a great fit: 1. A young adult navigating life transitions who'd like a space to get curious & find clarity 2. A high achiever who could benefit from evaluating their lifestyle balance, sense of self & pressure to perform
(312) 836-7727 View (312) 836-7727
Photo of Sidney Eileen Miller, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PhD
Sidney Eileen Miller
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PhD
River North, Chicago, IL 60611
Your awareness of personal pain may be the beginning of your determination to make needed changes in your life. If you long for an improved sense of your self and better relationships, seeking help is the first step. Each person deserves the helpful guidance of another person and I consider it a privilege to be a part of that journey. My background, experience, education, and multicultural focus has prepared me to serve a wide variety of people and to appreciate your unique qualities. Discovering your ability to understand yourself at a deeper level opens up the freedom to make positive choices in your life.
Your awareness of personal pain may be the beginning of your determination to make needed changes in your life. If you long for an improved sense of your self and better relationships, seeking help is the first step. Each person deserves the helpful guidance of another person and I consider it a privilege to be a part of that journey. My background, experience, education, and multicultural focus has prepared me to serve a wide variety of people and to appreciate your unique qualities. Discovering your ability to understand yourself at a deeper level opens up the freedom to make positive choices in your life.
(312) 342-1781 View (312) 342-1781
Photo of Lisa M. Demos, Counselor, LCPC, MA
Lisa M. Demos
Counselor, LCPC, MA
2 Endorsed
River North, Chicago, IL 60611
With over 25 years of experience I have worked with a range of issues and populations. My main approach to therapy is cognitive behavioral theory (CBT) in order to process thoughts, feelings, and beliefs that contribute to distorted thinking and behavior, therefore affecting emotional well-being. The goal is to challenge and reframe so that the client achieves their personal goals, to cope with life transitions and obstacles. I also utilize Attachment Theory, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy and Emotionally Focused Therapy. I've assisted clients with depression, anxiety, grief/loss, trauma, life transitions, and various others.
With over 25 years of experience I have worked with a range of issues and populations. My main approach to therapy is cognitive behavioral theory (CBT) in order to process thoughts, feelings, and beliefs that contribute to distorted thinking and behavior, therefore affecting emotional well-being. The goal is to challenge and reframe so that the client achieves their personal goals, to cope with life transitions and obstacles. I also utilize Attachment Theory, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy and Emotionally Focused Therapy. I've assisted clients with depression, anxiety, grief/loss, trauma, life transitions, and various others.
(773) 451-8172 View (773) 451-8172
Photo of Alexandra Milbourn, Counselor, MA, LCPC
Alexandra Milbourn
Counselor, MA, LCPC
1 Endorsed
River North, Chicago, IL 60654
At times everyone experiences difficulties they cannot overcome through their usual means of coping and problem-solving. I can help you move forward by understanding patterns in your past experiences, relationships, thoughts, feelings, and behaviors, as well as how they contribute to your current symptoms and concerns. My goal is to empower you, and help you develop adaptive skills so you can make the changes you want. I am passionate about helping adults, adolescents and children find effective and realistic solutions to trauma related symptoms that reflect their individual personality.
At times everyone experiences difficulties they cannot overcome through their usual means of coping and problem-solving. I can help you move forward by understanding patterns in your past experiences, relationships, thoughts, feelings, and behaviors, as well as how they contribute to your current symptoms and concerns. My goal is to empower you, and help you develop adaptive skills so you can make the changes you want. I am passionate about helping adults, adolescents and children find effective and realistic solutions to trauma related symptoms that reflect their individual personality.
(312) 874-5358 View (312) 874-5358
Photo of Courtney Foght, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, CADC
Courtney Foght
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, CADC
River North, Chicago, IL 60601
Limited openings for the summertime! Starting therapy can be overwhelming and is often the first time you are talking to someone you don't know about private experiences and feelings. My priority is providing clients a safe, nonjudgmental space to be their most authentic selves. I strive to create this by helping explore difficult emotions, process negative thought patterns, identify and build on strengths, and stay most centered and balanced during life transitions and adjustments.
Limited openings for the summertime! Starting therapy can be overwhelming and is often the first time you are talking to someone you don't know about private experiences and feelings. My priority is providing clients a safe, nonjudgmental space to be their most authentic selves. I strive to create this by helping explore difficult emotions, process negative thought patterns, identify and build on strengths, and stay most centered and balanced during life transitions and adjustments.
(312) 629-5480 View (312) 629-5480
Photo of Crystal Reynolds - The Family Institute at Northwestern University, Psychologist
The Family Institute at Northwestern University
Psychologist
3 Endorsed
River North, Chicago, IL 60611
Through research, education and clinical services, The Family Institute at Northwestern University is one of the nation's leading relationship-based behavioral health organizations committed to strengthening and healing the whole family system by bringing together the right partners to support children, adults, couples and families across the lifespan. As researchers, educators and therapists, we work with our clients and PARTNER TO SEE CHANGE. By weaving together 175 therapists and therapists-in-training, we create a high quality, collaborative system of behavioral health care. One that gets results.
Through research, education and clinical services, The Family Institute at Northwestern University is one of the nation's leading relationship-based behavioral health organizations committed to strengthening and healing the whole family system by bringing together the right partners to support children, adults, couples and families across the lifespan. As researchers, educators and therapists, we work with our clients and PARTNER TO SEE CHANGE. By weaving together 175 therapists and therapists-in-training, we create a high quality, collaborative system of behavioral health care. One that gets results.
(847) 733-4300 x263 View (847) 733-4300 x263
Photo of Natalie Lane Eden, Counselor, MBA, MA, LPC, LCPC
Natalie Lane Eden
Counselor, MBA, MA, LPC, LCPC
River North, Chicago, IL 60611
As a fellow pilgrim in the journey of life, I believe that my work in counseling is more than just a job. It is a vocation. I realize that reaching out for help can seem like a big step for many people. I am committed to assisting clients in this journey by offering empathy, genuineness, and compassion in a nonjudgmental setting. As an older therapist, I often work with people who are encountering transitions in life. I have personal as well as professional experience in navigating life's challenges.
As a fellow pilgrim in the journey of life, I believe that my work in counseling is more than just a job. It is a vocation. I realize that reaching out for help can seem like a big step for many people. I am committed to assisting clients in this journey by offering empathy, genuineness, and compassion in a nonjudgmental setting. As an older therapist, I often work with people who are encountering transitions in life. I have personal as well as professional experience in navigating life's challenges.
(847) 278-2951 View (847) 278-2951
Photo of Robert Uri Heller, Psychologist, PhD
Robert Uri Heller
Psychologist, PhD
2 Endorsed
River North, Chicago, IL 60611
I am committed to help you make the changes you want- Now. In your journey of self discovery, I will help you maximize your strengths, get support around your goals and desires, and create a healthy vision for yourself. I have worked with 100s of clients and have a wide range of experience to understand you. I am practical and results oriented. Make change work for you. Assessment is often used to help clarify issues and create a mutual plan.
I am committed to help you make the changes you want- Now. In your journey of self discovery, I will help you maximize your strengths, get support around your goals and desires, and create a healthy vision for yourself. I have worked with 100s of clients and have a wide range of experience to understand you. I am practical and results oriented. Make change work for you. Assessment is often used to help clarify issues and create a mutual plan.
(872) 295-8450 View (872) 295-8450
Photo of Brett Fry, Psychologist, PsyD
Brett Fry
Psychologist, PsyD
River North, Chicago, IL 60611
Clinical experiences and life experiences continue to teach me that each of us has a unique experience of being human—Each of us lives a life of depth, complexity, relationships, and hardships. In my private practice, I work with adults of various ages. I frequently work with people needing help with significant life changes (i.e., changes in relationship/marital status, geographical moves, career changes, having children, beginning college, retirement, etc.), anxiety and stress, depression, social difficulties, and family troubles.
Clinical experiences and life experiences continue to teach me that each of us has a unique experience of being human—Each of us lives a life of depth, complexity, relationships, and hardships. In my private practice, I work with adults of various ages. I frequently work with people needing help with significant life changes (i.e., changes in relationship/marital status, geographical moves, career changes, having children, beginning college, retirement, etc.), anxiety and stress, depression, social difficulties, and family troubles.
(773) 280-8932 View (773) 280-8932
Photo of Dr. Elizabeth Dimovski Jackson, Psychologist, PsyD
Dr. Elizabeth Dimovski Jackson
Psychologist, PsyD
River North, Chicago, IL 60654
I have been practicing psychology successfully for over 20 years. My story includes how I overcame my own struggles during a difficult divorce and the death of my father by using highly researched and validated techniques to heal. As a result, I have mastered a clinically valid approach to overcoming life challenges. I believe my role is to serve as a facilitator to assist you in healing and realizing your true potential by developing the skill set to walk a uniquely determined path toward self-actualization.
I have been practicing psychology successfully for over 20 years. My story includes how I overcame my own struggles during a difficult divorce and the death of my father by using highly researched and validated techniques to heal. As a result, I have mastered a clinically valid approach to overcoming life challenges. I believe my role is to serve as a facilitator to assist you in healing and realizing your true potential by developing the skill set to walk a uniquely determined path toward self-actualization.
(815) 934-8419 View (815) 934-8419
Photo of Dr. Michael Feinstein, Psychologist, PsyD
Dr. Michael Feinstein
Psychologist, PsyD
River North, Chicago, IL 60654
Thank you for visiting my page! I’m Dr. Feinstein and I am a licensed clinical psychologist who provides therapy and psychological assessment services to adults and adolescents. I am located in Chicago but offer telehealth to individuals around the country via my PSYPACT certification. I specialize in treating trauma and provide EMDR as a primary treatment. Other areas of specialty include anxiety, depression, addiction, identity development, life transitions, relationship issues, and self-esteem issues.
Thank you for visiting my page! I’m Dr. Feinstein and I am a licensed clinical psychologist who provides therapy and psychological assessment services to adults and adolescents. I am located in Chicago but offer telehealth to individuals around the country via my PSYPACT certification. I specialize in treating trauma and provide EMDR as a primary treatment. Other areas of specialty include anxiety, depression, addiction, identity development, life transitions, relationship issues, and self-esteem issues.
(312) 626-9419 View (312) 626-9419
Photo of Danielle Murphy, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, CADC
Danielle Murphy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, CADC
River North, Chicago, IL 60654
I specialize in working with clients and families affected by substance use disorders, employing a relational approach to address and treat the whole person.
I integrate cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), and mindfulness practices, all from a trauma-informed perspective. These approaches help clients navigate their challenges and foster personal growth and healing.
I specialize in working with clients and families affected by substance use disorders, employing a relational approach to address and treat the whole person.
I integrate cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), and mindfulness practices, all from a trauma-informed perspective. These approaches help clients navigate their challenges and foster personal growth and healing.
(312) 680-7263 View (312) 680-7263
Photo of Karem Muksed, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Karem Muksed
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
River North, Chicago, IL 60611
I provide therapy for relationship distress, interpersonal trauma, and emotional gridlock.
I provide therapy for relationship distress, interpersonal trauma, and emotional gridlock.
(872) 282-4786 View (872) 282-4786
Photo of Joy Ryba, Psychologist, PsyD
Joy Ryba
Psychologist, PsyD
4 Endorsed
River North, Chicago, IL 60645
As clinical director for Midwest Counseling & Diagnostic Center, and a practicing clinical psychologist, Dr. Joy E. Ryba treats individuals, couples and families presenting with issues related to drug and alcohol addiction, process addictions (gambling, spending and sex), depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, eating disorders, and self-injury. She has been in private practice since 2004, after leaving the group practice of a large suburban behavior health hospital.
As clinical director for Midwest Counseling & Diagnostic Center, and a practicing clinical psychologist, Dr. Joy E. Ryba treats individuals, couples and families presenting with issues related to drug and alcohol addiction, process addictions (gambling, spending and sex), depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, eating disorders, and self-injury. She has been in private practice since 2004, after leaving the group practice of a large suburban behavior health hospital.
(773) 570-4029 View (773) 570-4029

See more therapy options for River North, Chicago

Substance Use Therapists
How do substance and drug recovery or rehabilitation programs work?
In inpatient programs, individuals live in a facility with other clients in recovery; in outpatient programs, individuals reside at home. These facilities are staffed with healthcare professionals including physicians, nurses, psychologists, counselors, and psychotherapists. Staff often also includes people who have recovered themselves, serving as mentors and guides. These programs may use abstinence, harm reduction, detoxification, psychotherapy, and other methods.

How do 12-step programs combined with psychotherapy work?
Members of 12-step programs help each other reach abstinence and work to maintain it. These programs promote complete change in the individual’s emotional, mental, physical, and even spiritual perspectives. Some programs require that new members attend 90 meetings in 90 days. Many people do attend these programs in conjunction with their work in psychotherapy; the combination of therapy along with 12-step can be extremely effective.

How does harm reduction combined with psychotherapy work?
According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, harm reduction prevents death, injury, disease, overdose, and substance misuse. People who choose harm reduction for substance use reduce the amount of drugs they consume. It is not abstinence-based like a 12-step program, but combining harm reduction with psychotherapy proves to be effective for many people.

Are there specific medications for substance and drug use?
There are medications approved to treat substance use disorder—such as buprenorphine, methadone, naltrexone, and acamprosate. These medications do help people cope with substance use as well as avoid the problem of relapse. Naltrexone can help reduce cravings, methadone is an opioid medication used to treat severe pain, and acamprosate may help ease symptoms like poor sleep and anxious feelings.